8 Deck Patterns with Borders
By Dave KileYou have an attractive deck in the backyard, but do you want to make it even more gorgeous? Would you like to add something that’s not only stylish but functional? Consider installing a deck pattern. At Trex, we have seen lots of outdoor spaces taken to the next level, which has beautiful aesthetics. Making use of deck patterns and borders will not only enhance your deck but make your outdoor space more appealing.
I will explain what deck patterns are, cover some of the more common ones, and list some advantages of utilizing deck patterns. I’ll additionally go over the degree of difficulty and installation tips. You will see that deck patterns can not only transform your deck’s look but can also change the mood of your outdoor living area!
Deck Patterns with Borders
Listed below are some stylish and durable patterns. Best yet, all of these designs will help complement your deck type and taste. Whether you have a wood deck, a composite deck like Trex, or one made from a different material, these are great potential ideas to elevate your deck design.
Basketweave/Checkerboard
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: Basketweave or a woven pattern often mimics parquet floors but on a larger scale. The sharp perpendicular edges create an intricate look, drawing the eye ultimately to whatever your deck focal point may be. To make this design even more impactful, you could choose two different color tones for each direction.
Installation Tips: Although I have seen some successful deck projects made with this eye-catching design, I recommend using a pro. There are a lot of edges to cut for this particular deck project.
Maintenance and Care: Simply cleaning the deck and keeping debris out of the deck boards, as well as an annual deep clean, will go far in maintaining this unique deck pattern.
Chevron
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: Chevron is designed around a ‘V,’ which means it is very impressive! The visual appeal of this will lead you and your guests towards a posh, finished look. It’s possible to cover your entire deck with the chevron pattern, or just do a small section.
Installation Tips: Because of the number of edges and the precision cutting, a professional deck builder should build this style of deck.
Maintenance and Care: As with most deck patterns, keeping debris off the deck surface and annual deep cleaning will work well for this gorgeous design.
Curved/Circular
Difficulty: Advanced
Description: One of the most dramatic patterns is installing a curved or a circular design. The best material for this is composite, as heat must be used for the process. The possibilities are endless when you add some curvature to your outdoor oasis. This works in conjunction with differing steps or levels.
Installation Tips: We strongly recommend a deck-building pro for this option.
Maintenance and Care: Keeping your circular or curved deck clean will make it look amazing for a long time. For composite decking, please follow our cleaning recommendations.
Diagonal
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This “dashingly diagonal” design is a debonair and adventurous choice. It’s a clean and well-defined design that shows off your deck. This pairs perfectly with any furnishings and/or décor. Diagonal decking can be alternated with straight decking boards by using a dividing board to make a picture frame border. This provides a nice variation to the deck pattern.
Installation Tips: At Trex, we do recommend a pro for this. A contractor can help ensure the cuts are correct for this project.
Maintenance and Care: Sweeping debris and leaves off your deck surface is key. An annual deep cleaning will be necessary to keep this diagonal pattern looking fresh.
Diamond
Difficulty: Advanced
Description: Similar to the diagonal option, laying your boards in a diamond pattern is striking and requires careful planning. Homeowners will not be disappointed when they see how incredibly distinguishable this design is. A timeless alternative, the diamond pattern will add both vitality and a sense of familiarity.
Installation Tips: We recommend a pro for this project due to the amount of cutting required.
Maintenance and Care: Keeping your deck clean by sweeping, removing debris, and an annual deep clean is the way to go for this impressive deck pattern.
Herringbone
Difficulty: Advanced
Description: This is akin to the chevron pattern but is a bit more detailed. The end of the deck boards at the surface will meet at a 45-degree angle. To make a herringbone pattern, they are layered, almost crisscrossed, to form an awe-inspiring and elegant look to the deck. It’s one of the more challenging deckboard patterns, but it’s definitely one of the more rewarding.
Installation Tips: I recommend a deck-building professional for the herringbone pattern project. The pros will be able to ascertain that your boards will be cut and fitted accurately.
Maintenance and Care: Same as with the other wonderful patterns that are listed here – you will want to keep your deck area free of debris, pine needles, and leaves. With a tight herringbone pattern, there is a greater chance of things getting stuck in the crevices – especially pine needles! Also, performing an annual deep-cleaning is essential.
Inlay
Difficulty: Advanced
Description: This design will take the most planning, as you’ve got to perform careful measuring when it comes to cutting boards for the inlay and for the surrounding areas. Inlays can be either just the one placed in the center of your deck, or repeated throughout the deck’s surface. The finished look is sleek, creative, and sophisticated. Note: if you have an inlay of stone, complement it with pavers.
Installation Tips: I recommend a professional deck contractor for this deck pattern idea.
Maintenance and Care: As with the other deck patterns, cleaning is very important. Regular sweeping of leaves, debris, etc., as well as annual cleaning, will help keep your lovely deck looking brilliant. A word about decks with an inlay pattern: arrange your furnishings so that your inlay pattern shows through and captures people’s attention and visual interest.
Square Grid
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Description: The square grid can be as simple or as complex as you would like. The most challenging part is precisely cutting the boards to the correct length and then making sure they are placed in accordance with the pattern. This fun and engaging pattern is typically designed to make deck surfaces stand out but not to take away from the deck’s natural beauty. A picture frame border can be incorporated with this type of design pattern.
Installation Tips: This can be a DIY project, but if in doubt, it’s advised to contact a professional deck builder or contractor.
Maintenance and Care: Regular maintenance recommendations include sweeping, clearing debris, and ensuring no issues with your deck. Keeping moisture at bay is another way to preserve your deck and substructure. Lastly, a thorough annual cleaning will help keep your deck in top shape.
Professional vs. DIY
One of the main questions I get asked pertaining to deck building and to deck patterns is about constructing it on your own. As for installing a deck pattern, I would generally say you’re better off using a deck builder. They often have the tools, skills, and knowledge to help you decide on and implement a deckboard pattern.
Final Thoughts
Once you establish a deck pattern that works for you, consider matching railings, a complementary stone patio, and outdoor lighting. The possibilities of deckboard patterns are nearly endless. Creativity runs abound when selecting your next deck pattern – whether playful, worldly, or something unique and custom to you and your family.